A framework for assessment of creativity a case research on fashion design programme at NIFT

Abstract

Creativity is all-pervasive and is an inherent component in our lives. Although there is no conclusive definition of creativity, creative outcomes appear to be specifically relevant to a particular domain, either as an original product outcome or a creative process linked to innovation and design. newlineAssessment of creativity in the domain of design education is a relatively unexplored area, and raises considerations related to an understanding of creativity and components relevant to the assessment of creativity, including an objective measurement of the student s performance and improvement in terms of creative output. newlineDesign education, which is fundamentally based on creative derivatives, nurtures and fosters creativity as a process where students are encouraged to convert abstract ideas into concrete conclusions. In doing so, the student moves along a pathway that begins with ideation, and carries forward with exploration, iteration, analysis, and problem solving. With respect to creativity in design education, students are engaged primarily in converting abstract ideas into definite design solutions. newlineFashion design education is a sub-domain of design education, and similarly focused on students creative outcomes based on explorations and innovative problem-solving. These creative outcomes are assessed as part of the cornerstones of the triad of education Teaching, Learning and Assessment (TLA). The assessment is normally a mixture of formative assessment which measures the student s quality of improvement, and summative assessment which measures the student s level of achievement leading to an award. Assessment is conducted primarily through mentoring sessions, portfolio submissions, presentations and juries. It appears that not much research is available on assessment of creativity, especially for fashion education in India. newlineFashion design education in India is relatively nascent, having been founded only in the late 1980s......